VocabDictionary

social

/ˈsoʊ.ʃəl/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Relating to society or its organization.

Example Sentences:
  • The government is implementing new social policies to reduce poverty.
  • Social media has fundamentally changed how we communicate.
2.adjective

Needing companionship and best suited to living in communities; gregarious.

Example Sentences:
  • Humans are inherently social animals who thrive on interaction.
  • She has a very busy social life and attends many parties.
3.noun

An informal social gathering, especially one organized by a club or congregation.

Example Sentences:
  • The church is hosting an ice cream social this Saturday.
  • The department organized a social to welcome the new employees.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “social”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'socialis' meaning 'allied' or 'companionable', from 'socius' (companion, ally). It entered Middle English via Old French in the 14th century, initially referring to companionship before expanding to describe organized society and communal living.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'sociable' people at a 'social' gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions About “social

1. What is the meaning of “social” in English?

In English, social (adjective) is defined as: “Relating to society or its organization.”.

2. How do you use “social” in a sentence?

The government is implementing new social policies to reduce poverty.

3. What are English synonyms of “social”?

Common synonyms include:communal,collective,gregarious,public,sociable

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “social”?

Derived from the Latin 'socialis' meaning 'allied' or 'companionable', from 'socius' (companion, ally). It entered Middle English via Old French in the 14th century, initially referring to companionship before expanding to describe organized society and communal living.